I don't want to start another thread on whats the best SSK (Short Shift Kit) on the world, but rather need some information on what to choose with limited cash in my pocket. I've read on 'understeer' that I can use a 328i or an M3 to get 33% shift reduction, unfortunately the price most car morques quote me is the same as those sold on Ebay. They offer unbranded, 40% shift reduction and made of high quality steel. Here is what they look like:
http://i20.ebayimg.com/06/i/000/8d/7a/2786_1.JPGhttp://i17.ebayimg.com/04/i/04/e2/71/fe_1_b.JPG
Cost: 30GBP^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^Cost: 25GBP^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I understand I should expect a gear notch when shifting, or the gear lever not positioned correctly as the original and maybe even some other disadvantages you can all tell me about. Ideally as long as it reduces throw and the gear notch doesn't make me mis-shift, I can live with that since I'm planning on extending the gear knob to reach the bottom of the steering wheel height.
I really can't spend triple figures on some of the UUC or Rogue makes. Hopefully you can tell me between my options which one is worth it or what to expect if somebody bought one already. And one more thing, looking at those photos can you say why one is a fiver cheaper than the other short shift?

I don't want to start another thread on whats the best SSK (Short Shift Kit) on the world, but rather need some information on what to choose with limited cash in my pocket. I've read on 'understeer' that I can use a 328i or an M3 to get 33% shift reduction, unfortunately the price most car morques quote me is the same as those sold on Ebay.

The original Ben Liaw short shift kit (BL/SS) for the old timers was an M Coupe or M Roadster (Z3 M in Euro speak :)) stock shift lever modified with a couple of compound bends in it. Back then it was a $40 modification and quite a decent shift kit, enough that it started what is now UUC Motorwerks. Of course everything has changed since those days, both Ben and Rob each have their companies and each makes their own short shift kits.

I'm planning on installing a B&M shifter in my car when I get around to it which looks like the blue cup one you posted. These are no longer available at least here in the states.

Carlos.

I have one I bought and never installed. 70 bucks shipped and it's yours.

I've got a b&m in my e30 and am quite happy with it, but to be honest the UUC DSSR and AKG delrin shifter console bushing made the biggest difference it terms of taking out shifter slop.

If you have any E30, E36 325/323/318, or E46 325/323, you can get guaranteed-fit UUC quality at $149:

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/UUCRSK

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/UUCRSK/UUCRSK_6.jpg (http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/UUCRSK)


I really dislike sounding like a commercial advertisement, but this is technical info that is really important to someone considering a purchase like this...

What makes the UUC RaceShifter different than the ones posted above?

That all-chrome ebay special is a funny piece... I've ordered two of those, 3 years apart. Neither one was actually capable of being installed in a BMW as the lower pivot bushing hole was too small... and it was actually squishy, so even if it could fit, it would be horrendously sloppy.

The anodized blue shifter (a copy of B&M's earlier shifter) inherited the B&M problem - the entire blue shifter cup, a part that sees a lot of repeated force, is held in place by clip grabbing a <1mm aluminum ridge. These always break eventually, which is why I've got boxes and boxes of them from trade-ins. The ebay clone also has a squishy bushing, only slightly firmer than the chromie.

You'll also note the distinct lack of the standard groove ~2" from the top of the lever, the ridge that is required to retain a BMW shift knob. Yep... if you like BMW OE knobs, you cannot use them with either of these shifters as they will slip right off.

What makes the UUC RaceShifter so much better?

- Guaranteed fit for specified models.
- Stone-simple design for less complication in a racecar.
- Durable and precise German-sourced Igus bushing in lower pivot.
- Stress relieved/radiused diameter transitions (no breaking!).
- Positive retention via genuine BMW nylon cup bushing.
- All new genuine BMW assembly components included: primary pivot cup bushing, lower pivot retaining clip, pair of yellow crush washers.
- Made in USA (except for German bushing components).

Hope that helps!

I can vouch for the UUC Race shifter pictured above.
Its awesome.
Combine with their Double Shear Selector Rod and you are set.
Very nice piece.
HTH
jimmy p